1968 Chevrolet Chevelle

1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 Convertible The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 was as close to an Everyman's muscle car as Detroit would ever get. Reliable and affordable, the three year design cycle kicked off by the '68 version would outsell every other true high performance machine of the day, and beat its share, to boot. Musclecars.howstuffworks.com For consignment, a 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 convertible showing 101,111 miles, but the true miles are unknown. Owned by our consignor since 1982 who states the date correct engine was rebuilt about 10,000 miles ago and at the same time, it received some cosmetic sprucing. This is a true SS and one of just 2.286 convertibles produced in 1968 and retains its numbers matching transmission.  Exterior No bull, from the arena this car's single stage Matador Red paint still holds up and it's sandwiched by the newer black canvas soft top and black detail along the rocker panel, delineated by some stainless trim. The stiffening skirt folds in the hood extend to the dual headlights and grille where it contours to the shape, all underscored by a straight, chrome bumper. Out back, narrow tail lights bookend a black band on the latch panel with the SS badge firmly affixed to the middle. There's a double pinstripe running down the waistline of the car and 14-inch Chevrolet Rally wheels are at each corner. Imperfections include some general patina to the trim and emblems, various scuffs, chips, scratches and bubbling throughout, edge chips, and a linear ding on that black rear panel.     Interior Black vinyl door panels present in stock configuration and include the coveted SS 396 badging and the seats, though replaced, also retrain original specs and both front and back are in just about pristine condition. Up front, the steering wheel and instrument cluster remain in original configuration, simple by today's standards, while the center stack employs an AM/FM/Cassette player in conjunction with the original vent levers. A temp gauge has also been added to keep tabs on the big block. Newer carpet below is black and clean, and the trunk is also in fine condition and houses a spare.  Drivetrain Looking rather unassuming is the date correct 396ci L35 V8 under the hood, capable of 325 horsepower and backed by its numbers matching TH400 3-speed automatic transmission that routes power to the 12 bolt axle and 3.07 open gears. While some hoses and other components have been replaced, the bay appears essentially how it did in 1968 with some evidence of use.   Undercarriage The underside is what we'd call driver quality with the typical surface rust but trouble free and solid.  Dual exhaust runs through stock style mufflers and exits via steel pipes that are colored by surface rust. Drum brakes occupy all four wheels and suspension includes coil springs front and rear with a 4 link in back.   Drive-Ability The car starts and emits the appropriate but slightly tempered roar from the exhaust and we put the column shifter into position. Around the loop we go where the car exhibits good power and straight tracking and a fully functional interior. We are noting some exhaust leak noise, but everything else gets a green light. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase. Wow, a mostly unrestored SS396, a proverbial palette for next level refurbishment or simply drive as is, as a survivor, and stand out from the over restored crowd! This is a rare opportunity to pick up a well sorted 396 in close to original condition. And as one of 2,286 in existence, that's like finding a needle in a haystack. 138678B213039 1-Chevrolet 38-Chevelle SS396 67-Convertible 8-1968 B-Baltimore, MD Assy Plant 213039-Sequential Unit Number TRIM TAG 06B-2nd Week June ST 68 13867-1968 Chevelle SS Convertible BDY BAL1239-Baltimore Body # TR